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International Summer Travel Programs

Global Routes pioneers innovative, value-driven, experiential international education. The New York Times calls us "one of the most respected organizations in the field."

Over the past 50 years, we've led over 10,000 high school and college students on programs around the world. Our blend of community service, adventure travel, cross-cultural exchange, and language immersion changes lives. Our program offerings include authentic and immersive international programs for high school students and we design custom programs for schools and groups.

Global Routes students transcend stereotypes, dispel misconceptions, build strong relationships, develop global competencies, learn practical skills, have fun, and increase self awareness as they gain the skills necessary to become compassionate global leaders. 

Build Meaningful Connections

Be a traveler, not a tourist. Our goal is to leave our world a better place than we found it. We believe we can achieve this goal one human connection at a time. While staying with host families, learning from local community leaders, and immersing ourselves in our host culture, we build genuine and impactful bonds within our groups and the places we visit. 

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Develop Life Skills & Confidence

Build real skills as you live abroad, practice a foreign language, contribute to your host community, and become a leader. Grow with real-time coaching and guidance from your expert Global Routes Overseas Educators. Students return from their summer adventures more joyful, confident, driven, and resilient than ever before. 

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Real, Rugged, and Fun Life-changing Adventures

We're not simply visiting the top sites. Instead, we go deeper into our host communities, have wild adventures, and spend time in purposeful reflection. Find yourself trekking in the Himalayas, surfing in Costa Rica, kayaking in New Zealand, and more. Along the way, you'll be engaging with your host culture, learning new languages and traditions, and gaining a new perspective on your own potential. 

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Earn College Credit

Earn transferrable college credits while traveling the world during your summer adventure. Get ahead while you travel the world with our partnership with Portland State University. 

Don’t worry – no classrooms or lectures here! Instead, students earn college credit as they meet the outcomes associated with transformational travel. Essentially, you’ll be earning credit as you trek in the Himalayas, learn about conservation in Costa Rica, or camp in Hawai’i. How awesome is that?!

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Campus Life

Embarking on a summer program with Global Routes is more than just a journey to a new destination; it is an opportunity to embark on a transformative adventure that transcends borders and fosters a deep appreciation for the global community. Through immersive cultural exchange and meaningful service projects, participants not only contribute to positive change in host communities but also undergo significant personal growth. The program is designed to provide a holistic experience, blending education, service, and personal development in a safe and supportive environment. With a focus on creating lasting connections and empowering participants as global citizens, a summer with Global Routes promises to leave a profound and enduring impact.

  • Immersive Cultural Exchange: Global Routes offers a transformative summer program that provides participants with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for global diversity.
    Personal Growth and Development: Engaging in cross-cultural experiences and service work encourages personal growth, enhancing qualities such as empathy, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Participants return home with a broader perspective and increased self-awareness.
  • Lasting Friendships and Connections: Through shared experiences and collaboration on projects, participants forge meaningful connections with both fellow participants and members of the host community, creating lifelong friendships and a global network of like-minded individuals.
  • Educational Enrichment: The program provides a rich educational experience, offering opportunities to learn about local traditions, history, and customs. This hands-on learning approach complements formal education and fosters a deeper cultural understanding.
    Safe and Supportive Environment: Global Routes prioritizes the safety and well-being of participants, with experienced staff providing guidance, support, and supervision throughout the program. Comprehensive pre-departure preparation ensures participants are equipped with the necessary skills and information for a successful experience.
  • Empowering Participants as Global Citizens: By participating in a Global Routes program, individuals become empowered global citizens who are equipped to approach complex global challenges with compassion, empathy, and a sense of responsibility.
    Life-Long Impact: The lessons learned and experiences gained from a summer program with Global Routes continue to influence participants long after the program has ended, shaping them into socially conscious, culturally aware individuals who are inspired to make a positive impact on the world.
  • Tech-Free Engagement: In today’s digital age, Global Routes emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from technology to connect more deeply with the world around us. Participants experience a tech-free journey, allowing for undistracted immersion in the local culture and environment. This approach fosters mindfulness, enhances real-world social skills, and encourages participants to live in the moment.
  • Launching into Independence: The Global Routes experience is designed to nurture personal skills and growth, laying the foundation for participants to launch into independence. Through facing new challenges, navigating unfamiliar environments, and making decisions, participants develop confidence and autonomy. This empowerment prepares them for future endeavors, equipping them with the resilience and self-reliance necessary to thrive in any setting.

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